SNAP

Does CVS take EBT?

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Image of Aidan Lovely
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Yes, EBT is accepted at most CVS stores if you get SNAP benefits (or Summer EBT, also called SUN Bucks). CVS does not take cash EBT (also called TANF or welfare).

But not every CVS Pharmacy takes EBT, so call ahead to check before heading to your local store (you can use the CVS store locator to find your nearest CVS).

Tips for shopping at CVS with an EBT card:

  • Make sure you know which items are SNAP-eligible and which aren’t, remember you can buy groceries with SNAP but not pharmacy items
  • To check item availability, visit the CVS website. Unfortunately, you can’t use EBT to shop at CVS online, but browsing the CVS website to find deals ahead of time may help you budget
  • Use an app like Propel to track your monthly EBT balance, find deals, and maximize your SNAP benefits

Propel is the #1-rated EBT balance checking app

Download

Can you use EBT at CVS self-checkout?#can-you-use-ebt-at-cvs-self-checkout

Yes, you can use your EBT card at CVS self-checkout as well as regular checkout. But not all CVS locations have self-checkout lanes, so if you prefer self-checkout make sure to call ahead and ask.

Self-checkout at CVS with an EBT card is similar to checking out with a regular debit card.

  • Simply scan and bag your EBT eligible food items and select the EBT card option from the payment menu
  • You will be prompted to swipe your card and enter your PIN. The screen will show any balance left for non-EBT items in your cart after processing
  • If you’re using your EBT card at regular checkout, tell the cashier you want to use EBT right away so they can assist you with the process

Can you use EBT at CVS online?#can-you-use-ebt-at-cvs-online

No, you can’t use your EBT card to buy food online at CVS. To buy groceries at CVS with your EBT card, you’ll need to shop in person at a CVS store near you.

But you can use your EBT card online through a service like Instacart or DoorDash, which may have CVS stores as an option.

What can I buy with EBT at CVS?#what-can-i-buy-with-ebt-at-cvs

SNAP-eligible items including carrots, tuna, eggs, soda, and cereal

You can buy any SNAP-eligible food item with your EBT card at CVS. Some common SNAP-eligible groceries you might find at CVS include:

  • Milk, yogurt, and other dairy products
  • Bread and cereal
  • Frozen items like ice cream and frozen meals
  • Snack foods like chips, crackers, popcorn, nuts, and candy
  • Non-alcoholic drinks like bottled water, soda, energy drinks, and juice

What isn’t EBT eligible at CVS?#what-isnt-ebt-eligible-at-cvs

Non SNAP-eligible items including hot food, pet food, and paper towels

All stores must follow the same rules about what customers can buy with SNAP, including CVS. SNAP rules say you can’t use your benefits to buy:

  • Medicines, vitamins, and some supplements
  • Alcohol and tobacco products
  • Non-food items like pet food, electronics, and toiletries
  • Paper goods like toilet paper, paper plates, or paper towels
  • Diapers and baby wipes

Protecting your EBT card while shopping at CVS#protecting-your-ebt-card-while-shopping-at-cvs

When shopping at CVS (or anywhere else), it’s important to keep your EBT card safe. Thieves may target EBT cards to steal SNAP benefits.

Here’s how to protect your EBT information:

  • Check the card reader for anything that looks suspicious. Illegal skimming devices on card readers can take your information. If the card reader is loose, or seems off, don’t use it
  • Don't share your EBT card PIN with anyone, not even CVS employees
  • Keep your EBT card in a secure place so it doesn’t get stolen
  • Change your EBT PIN every month before your benefits are deposited to your account
  • Keep an eye on your EBT transaction history and look for strange activity

Immediately report lost or stolen EBT cards by calling your state EBT number